Quickly determine the section modulus and moment of inertia of C channel steel sections. This tool is ideal for engineers, architects, and metalworkers designing or bending cold-formed U and C channels.
Channel Section Modulus Calculator
Centroid Y Position (yc): —mm
Moment of Inertia (Ixx): —cm⁴
Moment of Inertia (Iyy): —cm⁴
Section Modulus (Sxx): —cm³
Minimum Section Modulus (Syy): —cm³
Cross-sectional Area (A): —cm²
Formulas for channel sections:
Ixx = H³b/12 + 2[h³B/12 + hB(h+H)²/4]
Iyy = b³H/12 + bH(xc-b/2)² + 2B³h/12 + 2Bh(xc – B/2)²
Sxx = Ixx/yc | Syy = Iyy/(B-xc)
✅ Introduction & Features
This calculator helps you compute the section modulus (Z) and moment of inertia (I) for standard C-shaped steel channels, using user-defined dimensions and axis selection (X-X or Y-Y).
It supports both metric (mm) and imperial (inch) units and works for both cold-formed and hot-rolled channels.
Key Features:
- Supports both X-X (major axis) and Y-Y (minor axis) calculations
- Real-time unit switching between mm/inch
- Displays Moment of Inertia (Ix, Iy) and Section Modulus (Zx, Zy)
- Perfect for structural bending planning or design validation
✅ How to Use
- Select your unit system (mm or inch)
- Enter section parameters: height, flange width, thickness, and inner radius
- Choose the axis of bending (X-X or Y-Y)
- Click “Calculate” to view section modulus and moment of inertia
- Adjust values to compare different profiles
✅ FAQ
Q1: What’s the difference between Zx and Zy?
A: Zx refers to bending about the horizontal (strong) axis; Zy refers to the vertical (weak) axis.
Q2: Can I use this calculator for U-channels or custom profiles?
A: Yes, if the cross-section matches standard C or U channel geometry.
Q3: What if my channel has lips or return flanges?
A: This tool is intended for basic open C profiles. For complex shapes, use FEA or CAD-based tools.
Q4: Can I export results?
A: Currently, exporting is manual, but you can screenshot or copy values.
Related Links:
- 👉 UPN & American Standard Channel Weight Calculator Calculate the weight of various channel profiles (UPN, C, U, American Standard).
- 👉 Channel Profile Bending Learn how to bend C and U channel sections without deformation.
- 👉 I-Beam and H-Beam Section Modulus Calculator Need calculations for load-bearing beams? Try our I/H beam tool.